#WorldCup 2018: Theresa May Pays Tribute to England Team After World Cup Heroics

Theresa May said the “whole country is proud of England” today, amid calls for Gareth Southgate to get a knighthood for his leadership of the squad.

She predicted a “bright future” for you young team and declared: “You gave it your all.”

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman would not comment on speculation about honours – but in her first reaction to the team’s World Cup odyssey, she hailed the England manager’s leadership.

“Gareth Southgate has led the team fantastically and the whole country is proud of England getting so far.

“It wasn’t to be this time – but what an amazing journey it’s been.

“England, Gareth, his young players and the fans can now look forward to a bright future with more great performances and more success. Well played everyone. You gave it your all.”

Among those calling for a knighthood for Southgate was former Labour leader Ed Miliband, who tweeted: “So proud of this team, their heart, their teamwork, their decency. Losing is shit but nothing can or should take that away. And Gareth still deserves the knighthood.”